Rev. Jody Betten
PASTOR
A Journey of Faith and Perseverance
From a young age, Reverend Jody Betten felt a profound calling to the pastorate — a calling she was told was not meant for girls. Undeterred by societal expectations, she embarked on a career in education, but the pull towards spiritual leadership persisted.

Reverend Jody earned her Master of Divinity from Western Theological Seminary and was ordained in the RCA, the Reformed Church in America, in 1996. Her early years in ministry were marked by a commitment to inclusivity and justice, principles that she carried into every facet of her work. Her staunch defense of a ministerial colleague and seminary professor — who bravely officiated his daughter's same-sex marriage — resulted in heresy charges, a challenging ordeal that concluded with an admonition, but ultimately reinforced her resolve to advocate for love and equality.

In 2012, Reverend Jody found her spiritual home in the United Church of Christ, where she received the Privilege of Call. Since then, she has never looked back, dedicating herself to serving both large and small congregations with fervor and a deep sense of mission. Today, she works for the UCC as an Intentional Interim Minister, a role she considers her favorite calling. In this capacity, Reverend Jody thrives on guiding congregations through significant transitions, nurturing their growth towards a more vibrant and inclusive expression of faith.
​
Reverend Jody describes her greatest challenge as the need to "stay in the moment." This philosophy not only reflects her personal mindfulness but also underscores her approach to ministry: being fully present with and for her community in every interaction.

Peter Black
PIANIST/DIRECTOR OF MUSIC

Lifting Spirits through Song
Since 2004, Peter Black has graced the piano at Douglas United Church of Christ with exceptional talent and devotion. His journey with us began as a gifted pianist whose weekly performances transformed routine departures into anticipated musical encores. Unlike most congregations where members might begin to file out during the final hymn, everyone at Douglas UCC stays seated, captivated by Peter’s playing. Each week, his concluding pieces are feel like joyous mini-concerts, showcasing his extraordinary skill and passion for devotional music.

Peter's connection with our church deepened over the years, culminating in his decision to become an official member in 2015. His commitment and influence within our community continued to grow, leading to his well-deserved appointment as Director of Music in August 2019. In this role, Peter not only continues to enchant us with his piano performances but also leads our music program with a visionary zeal, nurturing a space where music and fellowship intertwine seamlessly.

​Peter's role at Douglas UCC is more than just a position; it is a testament to the profound impact of music on community spirit and individual hearts. Each week, he not only plays notes on a piano but also brings together hearts in a shared experience of awe and celebration. Through his musical talent, Peter ensures that our church is not just a place of worship but also a sanctuary of joyous artistic expression.

Jeff Spangler
CANTOR

The Voice of Devotion
Since 2001, Jeff Spangler has been a cornerstone of the musical ministry at Douglas United Church of Christ. His journey with us began when he joined our small choir, sharing his vocal talents and quickly becoming a cherished member of our musical family. His exceptional abilities soon led him to roles as a soloist; and, by 2004, he had taken on the pivotal role of cantor/soloist, a position he has held with distinction ever since.

Each week, Jeff can be counted on to enrich our worship experience with his powerful and moving performances. His voice, resonating through our sanctuary, not only uplifts the congregation but also deepens the sense of sacredness that defines our services. Jeff’s ability to convey the emotional depth of music turns every hymn and response into a profound communal experience, fostering a deeper connection among our members.

Over the years, Jeff has worn many hats, demonstrating his dedication and versatility. His commitment to Douglas UCC goes beyond just his musical contributions; he embodies the spirit of our community—warm, inclusive, and inspiring. Jeff’s enduring presence and his ability to touch hearts through music have made him an indispensable part of our church's identity.

At Douglas UCC, Jeff Spangler continues to be not just a musician but a beacon of spiritual expression. His weekly performances are not merely about notes and rhythms; they are an offering of faith, hope, and love, resonating with all who are fortunate enough to hear them.

Julie Ridl
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
The Heart Behind the Desk
Julie Ridl joined the Douglas United Church of Christ team as the Administrative Assistant in December 2019, bringing with her a rich background in marketing communications and a knack for storytelling. Known affectionately at her previous agency as the "Chief Empathic Officer," Julie has a proven track record of developing effective communications strategies for a diverse range of organizations. Her ability to empathize and connect makes her a perfect fit for the nurturing environment of our church.

Before joining the administrative staff, Julie became a member of Douglas UCC in 2017, quickly identifying it as her "happy place." Her deep connection to the community is evident in the passion and enthusiasm she brings to her role. Whether drafting our E-Pistle, managing social media posts, or handling day-to-day interactions with congregants, Julie employs every medium — from typescript to X (formerly Twitter) — to tell our church's stories engagingly and authentically.

Julie's role as Administrative Assistant goes beyond typical clerical work; she is the linchpin in our communication efforts, ensuring that every message from Douglas UCC resonates with warmth and inclusivity. Her work not only supports the operational needs of our church, but also enhances our mission of building a welcoming and connected community.

At Douglas UCC, Julie Ridl continues to put her considerable skills to work for the betterment of her community, making sure that every member feels heard, valued, and connected. Her dedication and professional expertise are vital in helping Douglas UCC thrive as a beacon of faith and fellowship in our community.